Re: 025-0380, Proposed…

I am commenting to show my concern regarding 025-0380, Proposed Changes to the Endangered Species Act

The proposed re-definition for animal and plant habitat are preposterous, and do not at all take into account the fact that animals and plants need more than the ground immediately beneath them. If enacted, this alone would be disastrous for our species at risk.

As well, removing the concept of harassment of wildlife shows a lack of understanding (or care) about how species are actually affected by human activity. Harassment of wildlife can be a serious concern -- think of the shorebirds that migrate thousands of kilometres just to be chased around once they land! This amendment could be used to develop land by simply harassing away animal species so that the land isn't 'habitat' anymore.

Protecting our wild species isn't just about having lovely trees and birds to look at (though Ontario does have some great trees and birds!) Our wild species and ecosystems provide many services to us, such as flood prevention, pest reduction, and air filtration. These benefits provide an estimated $122.5 billion to our economy, and it would be reckless to ignore this value.

I love this province, and I cannot bring myself to support these amendments. I would be ashamed if my representatives did not recognize the importance of protecting our natural heritage.